The challenge of effective smoke management in large airport environments lies in several critical aspects. One of the primary concerns is managing smoke in expansive “Big Box” spaces such as check-in and departure halls, where large volumes of air must be controlled efficiently. At the same time, there is a strong need for aesthetic integration, ensuring that actuators or vents are seamlessly incorporated within high-end glass facades, including proper cable management and the concealment of junction boxes while still allowing access. Environmental factors also play a significant role, as façades and vents must be designed to withstand high wind load requirements, with Permanent Maintenance Units (PMUs) being mandatory for access. In addition, strict regulatory compliance must be met, including adherence to aviation fire safety standards such as BS EN 12101, along with fulfilling fire strategy requirements for free areas. The presence of inclined façades further adds complexity, as actuation drives are required to work harder due to the angle of the façade vents.
To address these challenges, a comprehensive solution is implemented through a well-defined design and engineering approach. The design concept typically combines natural make-up air with a powered smoke ventilation strategy, supported by tested control panels. Product specifications include the use of chain actuators and control systems that are tested and certified to EN 12101 Parts 2 and 10, ensuring reliability and compliance. Control systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with the Building Management System (BMS) and fire alarm systems; this integration must be clearly specified within the MEP/F scope and interlinked with the façade specifications. While BMS integration may be an additional requirement unless specified, fire system integration remains mandatory.
Façade integration is achieved through detailed CAD modelling, enabling accurate rendering of drawings for approvals, including the positioning of motors, routing of cabling around vent areas, concealment of junction boxes, and precise alignment of vents with multi-point locking systems.
Furthermore, cable laying in such large spaces requires careful planning, with controller locations distributed strategically to minimise the risk of damage from centralised placement. This approach also reduces cable lengths, making it more cost-effective and lowering the chances of voltage drops, thereby enhancing overall system efficiency.
| Feature | Details |
| Vent Type | Top-Hung Open Out (THOO) for Make-up Air Ventilation |
| Actuation Forces | 400N per Actuator chain pull/push. 4000N Clamping/Actuator. The Automatic Locking System motor specified has an 800N force. |
| Opening Stroke, Angle & Effective Free Area achieved/Vent | Stroke – 600mm (stroke as per EFA/GFA/Angle specified) Opening Angle – 15 Degrees (height governs angle) Effective Free Area – 1. 65m.sq |
| Areas of the Passenger Terminal Building where vents are placed | Phase I – Terminal 1 at Level 1 Pier Location |
| Controllers and switching | OS2 Shevtec Controller with SECO Manual Control Points Controllers Must Come with 72 hours of battery backup |
| Actuators and Controls tested to | EN12101/IS21927 |
| Motor Configuration used for Vent | SECO Ni 2440 Twin Actuator + Multi-Point Locking Motor. Colour Matched to RAL1035 |
The Result
A well-designed, delivered and maintained ‘Smoke Management’ system is key to having maximum safety during fire emergencies in high passenger flow environments. Causing lesser panic, smoke inhalation and a structured evacuation procedure. And, for firefighters, the benefits of having a clear path to fight the fires.
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